This Fail-Proof Egg Custard is the perfect dessert for anyone who loves creamy, smooth, and sweet treats. With just a few simple ingredients, I can create a luscious custard that always turns out perfectly. The rich vanilla flavor, silky texture, and subtle nutmeg garnish make it an irresistible dessert to finish off any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s so easy and foolproof. Despite how simple it is, it delivers a decadent, restaurant-quality dessert every time. The smooth, velvety texture of the custard combined with the hint of vanilla and nutmeg makes it incredibly satisfying. Plus, the baking process makes it almost like a cozy, comforting treat, perfect for anytime I crave something sweet. It’s a timeless classic that never disappoints, and it looks as impressive as it tastes!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
-
2 cups whole milk
-
3/4 cup sugar
-
4 large eggs
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
1/4 tsp salt
-
Ground nutmeg for garnish
Directions
-
I begin by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C).
-
In a medium saucepan, I combine the whole milk and sugar. I heat it over medium heat until it’s warm but not boiling, stirring occasionally.
-
While the milk mixture is warming, I whisk the eggs, vanilla extract, and salt together in a separate bowl until fully combined.
-
Gradually, I add the warm milk mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling.
-
I pour the custard mixture into ramekins and place the ramekins in a baking dish.
-
Next, I add hot water to the baking dish, making sure it comes halfway up the sides of the ramekins. This creates a water bath that helps the custard cook evenly and prevents it from curdling.
-
I bake the custards for 40-45 minutes, or until the custard is set. A toothpick or knife inserted in the center should come out clean when it’s ready.
-
Once baked, I let the custard cool slightly before garnishing with a sprinkle of ground nutmeg. Then, it’s time to serve!
Servings and timing
-
Prep Time: 5 minutes
-
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
-
Total Time: 50 minutes
-
Servings: 4 servings
-
Calories: 220 kcal per serving
Variations
-
Flavored custard: I can switch up the flavor by adding a little almond extract or even a splash of rum or bourbon for a fun twist.
-
Fruit topping: Sometimes I top the custard with fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, for a burst of freshness.
-
Caramelized sugar: For a crème brûlée-inspired touch, I can sprinkle sugar on top and caramelize it with a kitchen torch for a crispy, sweet finish.
Storage/reheating
I store leftover custards in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for up to 2 days. They are best served chilled, but I can also enjoy them at room temperature if I prefer. To reheat, I can microwave individual servings in 15-second intervals, checking after each, to avoid overheating. I avoid reheating the custard too long, as it could lose its smooth texture.
FAQs
Can I make this egg custard ahead of time?
Yes, I can make the custard a day ahead and store it in the fridge. It’s actually even better the next day, as the flavors have time to meld together.
Can I use a different type of milk?
I can use any kind of milk, but I find whole milk gives the custard the best creamy texture. If I want a lighter version, I can substitute with 2% milk or even a non-dairy milk like almond milk, though the texture may be slightly different.
What should I do if the custard is too runny?
If the custard doesn’t set, it may need a bit more time in the oven. I check it by gently shaking the ramekin—it should be firm but still slightly wobbly in the center. If it’s still too runny, I bake it a little longer, checking every 5 minutes.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! I can double the recipe and use a larger baking dish to accommodate the increased quantity. I just need to watch the baking time carefully, as it may need a little more time to cook through.
Can I freeze egg custard?
I don’t recommend freezing egg custard, as the texture may change once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.
Conclusion
This Fail-Proof Egg Custard is a simple yet elegant dessert that always hits the mark. It’s creamy, comforting, and sweet with just the right amount of vanilla and nutmeg. Whether I’m serving it for a special occasion or simply indulging in a quiet treat, this egg custard never fails to impress.
Print
Fail-Proof Egg Custard
This Fail-Proof Egg Custard is a creamy, smooth, and sweet dessert that’s easy to make and always turns out perfectly. With just a few simple ingredients like whole milk, eggs, vanilla, and a hint of nutmeg, this rich custard is the perfect way to end any meal. It’s a comforting, timeless dessert that will impress every time!
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
2 cups whole milk
3/4 cup sugar
4 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt
Ground nutmeg for garnish
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
-
Warm the Milk Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and sugar. Heat over medium heat until warm (not boiling), stirring occasionally.
-
Whisk the Eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, vanilla extract, and salt together until fully combined.
-
Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the warm milk mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
-
Prepare Ramekins: Pour the custard mixture into ramekins and place them in a baking dish. Add hot water to the baking dish, coming halfway up the sides of the ramekins (this creates a water bath).
-
Bake: Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the custard is set. A toothpick or knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
-
Cool and Serve: Let the custard cool slightly, then garnish with ground nutmeg before serving.
Notes
-
Flavored Custard: Add almond extract, or a splash of rum or bourbon for an extra flavor twist.
-
Fruit Topping: Top with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a refreshing contrast.
-
Caramelized Sugar: For a crème brûlée-style topping, sprinkle sugar on top and caramelize it with a kitchen torch for a sweet, crispy finish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
